New York and Texas

In July we went back to Texas so Todd could attend some meetings and we could have a visit with family. We took advantage of grandparents that hadn't seen Luke in awhile and took a grown up trip to New York City for the weekend. I had never been before and Todd had only been once.

Turns out our hotel was very close to Grand Central Station...I didn't realize it was so beautiful.

Here are people crowded around the information booth. Keep in mind we were there during the "slow" tourist season.

Times Square/Broadway...waiting in line for 1/2 price show tickets.

All ready for a night on the town. What in the world are we doing in this picture?

Our Broadway show of choice (and one that was 1/2 off) Rock of Ages starring American Idol alumni Constantine! This was my first show and I loved it (I think Todd did too). It was perfect because we actually recognized and liked all the music. It surprised me at how pretty the inside of the theatre was with large chandeliers and crown molding. Quite different from the outside...

The next day it was off the Bronx (via my first subway ride) and Yankee Stadium!

We were torn because the Yankees were playing Tampa Bay our new home team... (update...we are absolutely NOT Yankee fans).

After the game it was off to Queens for Thai food. It was so great to get out and see some other areas rather than Manhattan. Thanks to Tim and Allison for navigating us around the area and suggesting awesome restaurants. Waiting for the subway after dinner.

I am a dork and had to take a picture of the train...it WAS my first experience with them after all.

On a Greyline tour bus. I am a fanatic about taking tours if we are somewhere we have never been just to learn more about what we are seeing everyday. Anyway, here is the Empire State building with a very old church in front of it.

Our crazy tour guide. She actually said that things looked "like butta."

On day 3 we biked 2 laps around Central Park. It was exhausting and sooo hot but very pretty.

After Central Park we headed to the Brooklyn Bridge. We can still see you Todd...

Looking back at Manhattan from the bridge.

Taken from DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). We stopped to refuel with giant slices of pizza.

The highlight of our trip was probably getting tickets to see David Letterman! We went to the taping on our last day and ended up getting 3rd row seats and got to hang out in the (air conditioned) Ed Sullivan Theatre and even...use the bathroom! This was so special because everyone else waited outside in the heat.

Back in Texas Luke's Nanny and I took him to Chuck E Cheese. He was a little unsure of why these big plastic animals were riding with him.

Playing a water game with Nanny..

Eating Oreos with Austin.

Yep that is the face we have to say no too...

Eating pizza with "my Cooper" as he told me when looking at this picture.

COUSINS!!!

Swimming with Tim and Allison...

We found Tim's calling...water basketball. He did this move twice and made it both times!! Eat your heart out LeBron...

Saying goodbye to Grandma and Mike...or staring intently at a pine cone?

Last night in Texas...Joe T's for dinner.

Our visit coincided with my cousin's visit from Indiana. Todd, Me, Luke, Keith, Brian and Kristen. First time a pic was taken at Joe T's with NO margaritas in it! WOW...